Disaster and Climate Change Education in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan is vulnerable to wide range of hazards and rooting from weather, hydrological, geophysical and human induced disasters. In the past three decades, there has been an increase in the frequency and intensity of hydro-meteorological disasters including floods, extreme temperatures, torrential and prolonged rainfall, drought and storms. In this regard, efforts have been made by the government to endorse disaster and climate change education, and so far variety of initiatives and activities have been planned and some of them implemented. Because, Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) 2005–2015, priority for action-3 emphasises the role of knowledge and education, and stress on formal and non-formal education and awareness-raising as an important component of disaster risk reduction strategy. Keeping in view this changing scenario, the government of Pakistan has developed the national climate change policy 2012, which clearly pinpointed the need for disaster and climate change education and development of curricula with particular emphasis on disaster and climate change, and its introduction in the country education system. The policy also highlighted to ensure inclusion of climate change education and training as a compulsory subject in the forest education system. In order to enhance the human capacity in the field of disaster and climate change education, the government has also taken the responsibility of sending young scientists and students to reputed institutions abroad for higher studies. In addition to this, it is pertinent to encourage and strengthen the existing disaster and climate change science, in the related institutions and universities through technical and financial support. The national disaster management plan 2012–2022 also highlighted that research need to be carried out on the challenges of disasters and climate change issues. These measures if taken care of in policy, plans and programs will definitely lead to mitigate and minimize the extent of damages in anticipation to the changing climate scenario. This chapter discusses the disaster and climate change education, Pakistan’s vulnerability to Disaster and Climate Change, Growth and Development of Disaster’s Legislations and Institutions, Disaster and Climate Change Education at School, College, University, Professional and Technical Institutions, National Institute for Disaster Management, Religious Institutions, Community Level, and in the State Departments, Civil Services Academies and promotion of Research environment in the country.